LETTER DCCCLV.

_To Lady H――――._

_Edinburgh, July 29, 1750._

_Ever-honoured Madam_,

WHAT shall I say? Your Ladyship’s condescension in writing to unworthy

me, lays me low before Him, who continues to follow me with his

goodness and mercy every hour of my life. Ungrateful _Ashby_! O that

thou knewest the day of thy visitation! Surely your Ladyship may shake

off the dust of your feet against them. This was the command, that

the meek and lowly JESUS gave to his apostles, when the gospel was not

received. And he himself departed, when the _Gadarenes_ desired him

to go out of their coasts. This justifies your Ladyship in removing Mr.

_B――――_. What avails throwing pearls before swine, who only turn again

and rend you? However, I bless GOD that your Ladyship’s house is made

a _Bethel_. Glad would I be of the honour of joining your Ladyship’s

little select company, but our Redeemer appoints me other work.――Indeed

it is very pleasant work. No one can well describe the order, attention,

and earnestness of the _Scotch_ congregations. They are unwearied in

hearing the gospel. I left thousands sorrowful at _Glasgow_, and here

I was again most gladly received last night. By preaching always twice,

and once thrice, and once four times in a day, I am quite weakened; but

I hope to recruit again, and get fresh strength to work for Him, who

shed his precious blood for ill and hell-deserving me. On _Thursday_

next, GOD willing, I shall leave _Scotland_. Your Ladyship shall know

whither I go. In the mean while, I send your Ladyship some _Georgia_

letters, which I hope will afford you satisfaction. I have been upon

the enquiry for some proper persons, for dear Captain _G――――_ and

his Lady to converse with at _Dumfries_, and last night I hear I have

succeeded. Particulars they shall know hereafter. I can now only send

them my most grateful and cordial respects, being obliged to stop to

get strength even whilst I write this. O this mortal body! How does it

weigh down my precious and immortal soul! Ere long it will be set at

liberty, and body and soul shall be for ever with the LORD. I cannot

enlarge. Your Ladyship is remembered every day by many here. I hope

your Ladyship’s honoured sisters are prospering in soul and body. The

searcher of hearts can tell how much I count it my honour to subscribe

myself, ever-honoured Madam,

Their and your most obliged, dutiful, and chearful

servant for JESUS CHRIST’s sake,

_G. W._

The works of the Reverend George Whitefield, M.A., Vol. 2 (of 6) · 第 385 / 497 题